We’re thrilled to introduce you to Kelly Staunton, one of our remarkable talents who recently clinched the prestigious Acorn Award in 2023. We interviewed her to find out a bit more about her and her history in hospitality.
Getting to Know Kelly
Kelly's journey with BIA People Recruitment began four months ago, as she transitioned from the bustling operational side of the hospitality industry to pursue a career in recruitment and sales. Seeking a balance between work and life, she found her niche in connecting talented individuals with exciting opportunities.
Outside the world of recruitment, Kelly is a force to be reckoned with in the world of ultramarathons. With awe-inspiring determination, she has conquered challenges like The Ultra Wales 50 and the Lakeland 100 miler, a feat that demands running 100 miles with a staggering ascent of 22,000 feet. This ambition and dedication are evident not only in her athletic pursuits but also in her academic achievements, having obtained three degrees during her career journey.
Chasing the Dream of Hospitality
Kelly's love affair with hospitality began at the age of 14 when she secured a work placement at a luxury country house hotel. Her exposure to the inner workings of hotels, the joy of serving guests, and the ability to be sociable with colleagues solidified her resolve to pursue a career in this field.
Gems of Wisdom
Reflecting on the advice she has received; Kelly shared the wisdom passed down to her by a former Acorn 30 Under 30 Winner: "Always be yourself and ensure you help others along the way." This philosophy of authenticity and mentorship has been a guiding light in her professional journey. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals and targets, a practice that has enabled her to achieve excellence throughout her career.
Words of Encouragement for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals
To those embarking on their journey in hospitality, Kelly offers a heartfelt recommendation: embrace the excitement, camaraderie, and endless growth opportunities the industry provides. She urges newcomers to set their sights on advancing to managerial roles, as hospitality thrives on passion and dedication, qualities that can lead to rapid career growth.
A Proud Milestone at BIA
One of Kelly's proudest moments at BIA People was securing a contract with the prestigious Hoar Cross Hall Hotel and Spa in Derbyshire. In her first three months with the company, she successfully supplied them with highly qualified Spa Therapists, demonstrating her prowess in talent acquisition and client satisfaction.
The Spark that Ignites Passion
Passion permeates Kelly's work at BIA People Recruitment. She relishes the opportunity to interact with diverse clients and hone her skills in sales and recruitment. With meticulous attention to detail, she ensures that both clients and candidates receive the best possible service.
The Most Rewarding Aspects
For Kelly, the most rewarding moments stem from completing the full circle of the recruitment process. Landing a meeting with a potential client, followed by a successful placement, and receiving positive feedback, brings her immense satisfaction. She also loves reconnecting with old colleagues and forging new relationships in the hospitality industry adds an extra layer of fulfilment to her role.
The Next Chapter
What’s next for Kelly? She sets her sights on a promising future. While she aspires to become a General Manager of a hotel, she also envisions focusing on the sales and recruitment domain, potentially stepping into a managerial or directorial role.
The Future of Hospitality: A Focus on Work-Life Balance
As the hospitality industry evolves, Kelly believes that prioritizing work-life balance will become increasingly vital. Long hours and intense workloads have been commonplace, but she foresees a shift towards a smarter approach to achieve outstanding results. The adoption of a four-day work week is a change she anticipates, providing a better quality of life for those working tirelessly to enrich guests' experiences.
Final Thoughts
Kelly Staunton's journey at BIA People and her passion for hospitality are an inspiration to us all. We extend our warmest congratulations to Kelly for winning the Acorn Award 2023 and look forward to witnessing her future triumphs. As she continues to excel in the world of recruitment, her dedication and authenticity will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the industry.
If you are looking to start a promising career in hospitality, make sure to contact us today!